Synopsis: BRI is a powerful opportunity for Canadian businesses to deepen their ties to China. This keynote explores how Canada can get an early start on accessing new markets by participating in the projects that will connect us to them.

Speaker: The Honorable John McCallum, Ambassador of Canada to the People’s Republic of China

10:45 am

Panel Discussion: What Canadian Business Need to Know about BRI Room 200, Beanfield Centre,105 Princes' Blvd, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3

Synopsis: This panel delves into how Canadians can get involved in BRI projects and provides an updated understanding of related markets, benefits and risks

Moderator: Sandra Pupatello, President, Canadian International Avenues Ltd and former Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Trade

Panel:

Michael Lewis, Managing Director, Marsh Canada Ltd.

Howard Lin, Professor and Director, Canada-China Institute for Business & Development, Ryerson University

Qi Tao, Head of the Corporate Banking Department, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Canada)

Synopsis: Canada is one of the world’s most trusted national brands, and that reputation extends to China. The power of Brand Canada is a distinct competitive advantage as Chinese purchasing power rises.

Synopsis: The Belt & Road Initiative is providing the world with development opportunities that connect the global population to new avenues of financing, partnership and expertise. The Chinese government encourages all nations to get involved, and Canada is among the countries who can use this opportunity to expand trade relationships in a time of rising protectionism

Speaker: His Excellency Lu Shaye, Ambassador of People's Republic of China to Canada

Synopsis: BRI will be one of the biggest overhauls to global trade routes in modern history. An expert panel will discuss what the overhaul will look like and how it will grant enhanced access to new markets for Canadian firms and their trading partners.

Moderator: John Boscariol, Partner, McCarthy Tetrault LLP

Panel:

Tim Strauss, Vice President of Cargo, Air Canada Cargo

Misko Kancko, Director Global Strategy, Canada Post

Jack Mahoney, President, Maersk Line Canada

Joseph Lam, Chair, International Business Development Committee of Intelligent Transportation Systems Society of Canada

Synopsis: At its heart, BRI is an infrastructure initiative. From roads to rail, from bridges to ports, this massive series of projects will require a global effort. This panel will tackle the types of projects conceived by BRI and how Canadian firms can participate.